Trump and Zelensky express optimism on a potential deal, China conducts large scale military exercises around Taiwan

US President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy express optimism about a potential Ukraine-Russia peace deal, citing progress in talks and Russian willingness to help rebuild Ukraine, despite acknowledging remaining "thorny issues" to be resolved. (Politico - Eli Stokols and Alex Gangitano)

Politico: Rep. Mike Turner states Russia and Ukraine are nearing a peace deal, but Moscow must signal willingness to make concessions, as Ukrainian President Zelenskyy meets with Trump to discuss a 20-point peace plan.

The Washington Times stories: News: Trump and Zelenskyy believe a Ukraine-Russia peace deal is near, but warn of remaining issues

The Independent: Trump meets Zelensky, claims progress in Ukraine peace plan, but notes 'thorny issues' remain

Middle East faces heightened geopolitical risk in 2026 due to Iran's nuclear program, Syrian instability, and regional competition among key powers, threatening global energy supply chains and security. (SpecialEurasia - Giuliano Bifolchi)

China conducts large-scale military exercises around Taiwan, using real firepower to demonstrate strength and deter independence attempts, amid escalating regional tensions and a recent $16.4 billion US arms sale to Taiwan. (ΤΑ ΝΕΑ )

پایگاه خبری تحلیلی انتخاب | Entekhab.ir: China's military holds large-scale drills around Taiwan, citing readiness assessment and warning against independence attempts, escalating regional tensions and showcasing its military capabilities.

Sydney Morning Herald - World: China conducts live-fire drills in response to the US $16.4 billion arms sale to Taiwan, escalating tensions in the region and prompting a strong diplomatic reaction from Beijing.

NYT > World News: China announces live-fire military exercises near Taiwan after US arms sales

Violent clashes erupt in Yemen's Hadhramaut region between UAE-backed and Saudi-backed militias, escalating tensions in the conflict-ridden area. (آخرین اخبار | خبرگزاری تسنیم | Tasnim )

Turkey resumes Aegean airspace violations following Greece, Cyprus, and Israel's formation of a regional security alliance, escalating tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. (Πρώτο Θέμα: RSS )

Turkey receives $9 billion from Russia for the construction of the Akkuyu nuclear power plant, a significant investment in the country's energy infrastructure. (News | Egypt Oil & Gas - Doaa Ashraf)

Asia-Pacific markets post mixed results, with Nikkei 225, Hang Seng Index, and Kospi experiencing varied performances, reflecting regional economic trends and investor sentiment. (Blockchain News )

The Hang Seng Index soared 30% in 2025, fueled by significant growth in AI and metals sectors, marking a notable surge in the market. (Dimsum Daily )

Tech giants OpenAI and SpaceX prepare for IPOs amid rising interest rates and increasing AI development costs, sparking market speculation and potential investment opportunities. (City AM - Saskia Koopman)

Asian markets show mixed results following a subdued Wall Street session, as rising Taiwan tensions fail to significantly impact trading, with investors adopting a cautious approach amidst geopolitical uncertainty. (The Independent - Elaine Kurtenbach)

Colombian President Gustavo Petro's approval rating stands at 34.9%, with 61.4% disapproving, second only to Venezuela's Maduro in regional disapproval ratings. (Noticias de Colombia | El Colombiano )

Colombian President Gustavo Petro proposes a National Constituent Assembly to bypass Congress and implement key reforms, sparking debate on the country's political future and potential constitutional changes. (Noticias de Colombia | El Colombiano )

Israel's recognition of Somaliland sparks significant geopolitical shifts in the Horn of Africa, potentially altering regional dynamics and alliances in the area. (Greek City Times )

Vice President JD Vance launches national campaign for 2028, seeking to unite conservatives and move beyond internal MAGA conflicts, aiming for a broader appeal. (پایگاه خبری تحلیلی انتخاب | Entekhab.ir )

Myanmar's widely criticized election, marred by boycotts and flaws, is likely to favor the ruling military junta, with citizens voting out of fear rather than hope amidst a brutal civil war. (Sydney Morning Herald - World - Sui-Lee Wee)

NYT > World News: Myanmar's military rulers hold elections amidst a brutal civil war, seeking legitimacy

NYT > World News: Myanmar's election favors the ruling military junta, seen as a pragmatic way to improve conditions

California experiences early flu season onset, driven by new H3N2 Flu A subvariant, prompting doctor concerns about potential severe impact on children's health and increased hospitalizations. (California - Rong-Gong Lin II)

Climate change and extreme weather conditions impact ube harvests, exacerbating supply shortages amid soaring global demand for the purple yam. (NYT > World News - Rambo Talabong and Jes Aznar)

Europe's largest volcano erupts with intense explosions, lava, and gas, but currently poses no immediate danger to surrounding areas, according to officials monitoring the situation. (LA NACION )

A 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan, causing brief power outages to 3,000 homes, with no immediate reports of major damage or casualties. (World News Today: International News Headlines - The Hindu | The Hindu )

US regulators investigate Tesla Model 3's door release mechanism over safety concerns, potentially affecting vehicle owners and prompting a review of the electric car's design and functionality. (Arabian Post - Arabian Post)

African youth are embracing farming as a viable career option, shifting away from the perception of it being low-status work, due to the high cost of urban living and seeking economic stability and self-sufficiency. (The Independent - Mark Banchereau)